Russia applies visa interview regulations

In Moscow, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that in-person interviews will be conducted by Russian diplomatic missions and consular offices at the stage of examining visa applications. When coming for an interview, visa applicants need to present a copy of the invitation, labor contract, work permit, letter of guarantee, round-trip ticket, as well as confirmation of sufficient funds to stay in Russia.

The Russian Foreign Ministry explained that this new measure is aimed at protecting the rights of visa applicants themselves, optimizing the verification of the information provided, as well as preventing illegal immigration and preventing the use of Russian territory for illegal entry into third countries.

Foreigners applying for a visa to Russia from third countries will now have to present documents confirming their permission to stay in these countries for more than 180 days (previously it was 90 days). However, this rule does not apply to transit visas.

Currently, most citizens of European countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, and some African and South American countries are required to apply for a visa to enter Russia. Visa-free regime is established with countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Cuba, Venezuela, and conditional visa-free with China, Turkey, Serbia and other countries.

Citizens of 55 countries can apply for an e-visa, meaning they do not need to contact a consulate in their country. Since August 2023, more than 540,000 foreigners have received this visa.